Man wants to educate public on world religions
ZELIENOPLE — Tom Grant, a Zelienople library trustee and retired history teacher, has traveled around the world exploring places like India, Vietnam and Japan.
He's now using the knowledge gained from his travels to educate the community about different religious beliefs. Grant will teach a series of four classes beginning Feb. 24. The classes will be at 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays at the library.
“It is very important for the community to understand culture,” said Grant, who taught for 35 years. “Culture molds society.”
Grant said the first class will focus on Islam followed by Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism.
“I chose Islam to be first because it's current in the news,” Grant said. “It's timely to start with that.”
The program was implemented after Grant offered to speak about world religions last year. Because of the program's previous success, the library decided to host the series again this year.
“Tom volunteered to teach the course,” said Jolene Thompson, coordinator of online and patron services. “It was well received last year.”
The library, which also serves residents in Lancaster and Jackson Townships and Harmony, is eager for a better attendance this year — especially for those who were unable to attend last year's event. Anyone interested in the series is welcome to attend one or as many of the programs that they want.
“We hope to attract a diverse group of people,” Thompson said. “If people couldn't come last year, they can come now.”
Grant said that he plans on spending the first hour introducing religious traditions by using library books and his own personal materials, and then he wants to have an open discussion to answer questions about the religion covered.
In the process, Grant said he wants people to recognize that religions are more alike than people think.
“It makes people more aware of other religions,” Grant said. “I've learned that religions share more than they realize and all share a similar golden rule.”
Thompson said that programming like the world religion series has been instrumental in bringing the community into the library.
“A library is a great place for lifelong learning,” Thompson said. “It was great to see the variety of people who came in for this program last year.”
Her hope is that community members who enter the library for the first time will realize that it's more than just a place for reading. Thompson said it's a place where the community can also come together in discussion.
Grant's goal is to not only educate the community about religious traditions, but to dispel common stereotypes surrounding religion.
“I want people to have a better understanding and appreciation for other religions so that people will hesitate before they make a judgment,” Grant said.
Registration for the series is not required, but appreciated. For more information, call the library at 724-452-9330.
<B>WHAT:</B> World Religions four-week series hosted by Tom Grant<B>WHEN:</B> 6:30 p.m. Thursdays beginning Feb. 24<B>WHERE:</B> Zelienople Public Library, 227 S. High St., Zelienople<B>INFO:</B> Registrations is preferred but not necessary. Call the library at 724-452-9330.
